Kawasaki Delivers BK117C-2 Firefighting and Disaster Relief Helicopter to Tokushima Prefecture

Tokyo, September 28, 2017 — Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd. announced today its delivery of a Kawasaki BK117C-2 firefighting and disaster relief helicopter to Tokushima Prefecture. This is Kawasaki's 16th C-2 model to be used for firefighting and disaster relief applications. Scheduled to replace a retiring Kawasaki BK117 helicopter deployed by the Tokushima Fire Fighting Disaster Prevention Air Corps, the new helicopter will enter operation within the current fiscal year.

Developed jointly by Kawasaki and European helicopter manufacturer Airbus Helicopters, formerly Messerschmitt-Bölkow-Blohm (MBB), the Kawasaki BK117 is a medium-sized multipurpose twin-engine helicopter, and it is the first domestically manufactured commercial helicopter to have been granted type certification. The BK117 features wide clamshell doors at the rear which enable easy loading and unloading of stretchers, equipment and so forth, and its spacious cabin, compact overall design and outstanding mobility have earned this helicopter high marks. The BK117 is used around the world for firefighting, disaster relief, emergency medical services, cargo and personnel transport, law enforcement, broadcasting and more.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the start of joint development efforts for the BK117 between Airbus Helicopters and Kawasaki. Following delivery of the first model in 1983, this domestically produced helicopter has been continually improved over the years, making it a global bestseller. Kawasaki has successfully delivered 177 helicopters as of September 28, 2017, and together with those delivered by Airbus Helicopters, there are over 1,400 in use around the globe.

Moving forward, Kawasaki will continuously utilize its technological capabilities cultivated over the years and employ a comprehensive support system distinctive of domestically manufactured helicopters in order to further explore business opportunities for the BK117.